Nutrition myths spread fast. They sound clean, motivating, and tweetable. Then you sit an IB SEHS exam, write one of them with confidence, and the markscheme quietly disagrees. The gap between “gym advice” and IB SEHS explanations is where many students drop easy marks.
This guide breaks down common nutrition misconceptions and replaces them with exam-ready thinking you can use immediately in IB SEHS.
Quick IB SEHS checklist for nutrition answers
Before you write, run this quick IB SEHS filter:
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Name the nutrient and its role (energy, repair, regulation).
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Link it to exercise intensity and duration.
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Use cautious language (avoid “always” and “never”).
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Add one physiological effect (glycogen, cardiovascular strain, thermoregulation).
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Practice the pattern with the A.2 Hydration and nutrition Questionbank.
Misconception: “Protein is the main fuel for exercise” (IB SEHS)
Protein is important, but in IB SEHS it is not described as the primary energy source during most exercise. High-mark responses explain that carbohydrates are the preferred fuel for moderate to high-intensity efforts, while fats contribute more during lower-intensity, longer-duration activity. Protein is better framed as supporting muscle repair and adaptation, with only a minor role in energy supply.
